Document verification: A source of misery to mobile subscribers

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Saiam

08 November, 2010

Customers received messages stating that they would have to resubmit their documents as these were incorrect or incomplete. These text messages from the mobile companies have users up in arms.

“I FEEL handicapped. It feels that my limbs have been cut,” says Mayank one of those 30 lakh customers in New Delhi whose mobile connection has been stopped by their telecom service provider.

The Home Ministry of India has asked the telecom companies to resubmit the identity proofs of many of their customers. “The subscribers will have to resubmit their documents like photographs, address proofs as well as the identity proof”, an executive from a telecom company said, requesting anonymity.

In this fast shrinking world, mobile phones have become indispensable. It has become an integral part of our everyday existence and it is unimaginable to live without a mobile. A mobile phone is no more a luxury but a necessity. But this re-verification drive is creating havoc for many mobile users.

Surendra, an executive from a renowned telecom company said that this decision was taken by the government of India and they were only executing it. “This is being done only for security purposes.” he said.

Customers received messages stating that they would have to resubmit their documents as it was incorrect or incomplete. These text messages from the mobile companies have users up in arms. “They are saying our documents are not correct. If this was the case then why did they not verify it before issuing the SIM cards. It is not at all our fault,” says Fahim one of the users who has been asked to resubmit his documents.

Rajiv, an IAS aspirant said, “I came to Delhi two years back, and I was allotted the connection on one of my friend’s ID. The major problem is he doesn’t stay in Delhi anymore and I don’t have the required documents.” The same problem is also faced by many other mobile users. “I hope that they don’t discontinue my connection. That will really be a nuisance!” Rajiv complained.

While users are complaining about the inconvenience caused to them, telecom companies are defending their stand. “Companies are abiding by the norms and policies which they are forced to follow. For such users, we have a system of owner transfer-ship” says Faizan an executive from a telecom company.

“Whatever be the issue, it is us who are getting severely affected. They must send customer support for collecting the necessary documents. I have completed all the formalities at the time of getting the number, why should I do it all over again?” Rajiv asked echoing a common feeling.

“This is a matter of great concern for telecom companies as well, deactivation of connections will also affect the profitability of the companies” an official of a telecom company said.